It is hard to believe the 2019-2020 school year has come to a close. During this school year, there have been celebrations, challenges and many triumphs, as demonstrated by the Class of 2020. It is a pleasure to congratulate our high school graduates as they continue their journey into the future. Our students have inspired us all with their resilience and fortitude, and are a shining example of why, our students are the top priority.

Throughout the United States, no school district, including the Harrisburg School District, could have imagined or anticipated the magnitude that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on educating students. During this unprecedented time, we are proud of the way in which the District and the entire community have come together on behalf of our students.

As we transition into summer, there are many questions surrounding what the next school year may look like. Our goal as a school district is to continue to accommodate the unique needs of our students and families to ensure equitable access to sound educational practices and rich opportunities for student learning.

As part of our emphasis to provide a range of learning options, the school district is launching the Harrisburg Virtual Learning Academy (HVLA) for the 2020-2021 school year. For parents and guardians that may be seeking a 100% online educational option for your student(s), the Harrisburg Virtual Learning Academy provides a unique opportunity for a comprehensive learning program. As we prepare for the start of the 2020-2021 school year, the District has developed a detailed Health and Safety Plan, as required by the Pennsylvania Department of Education that addresses safety conditions, procedures and practices that will be in place in all District buildings to ensure the safety of students, staff and the broader community.

We would be remiss if we did not address the critical need for the equity and safety of all students. We are saddened by the recent loss of an 8th grade student due to a tragic event that took place in the community. We must work together to ensure that all students are shielded from senseless violence and that we build bridges to address anger and trauma at all levels. We also cannot ignore the senseless death of George Floyd in Minnesota and other events in places across the country including New York, Georgia, and Kentucky and must ensure equity and social justice for students of color and for ALL students in the Harrisburg School District. During the upcoming year, greater strides will be made to address equity for all.

It is a pleasure to work with, and partner together with parents and guardians to make great things happen for our students of the Harrisburg School District. Please stay in tune to the wonderful and enriching summer activities that will continue to be posted on the website and on WITF and WHBG Channel 20 in addition to consistent updates and reminders on the website.

Please know that as parents and guardians, you and your children are valued and appreciated. On behalf of the entire District staff and members of the School Board of Directors, best wishes for a wonderful and safe summer!

Harrisburg School District

The Harrisburg School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, age, familial status, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability. The policy of equal opportunity and equitable treatment applies to every aspect of school district operations and activities, including admissions and employment practices. This policy shall be made known to all persons and organizations associated with the Harrisburg School District, to all Educational Placement Services, the Pennsylvania Bureau of Employment Security and all recruiting sources. Any student, parent, employee, or citizen who feels that they have been denied fair treatment or equal opportunity in any aspect of School District operations or activities because of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, age, familial status, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability should contact the Title IX Compliance Coordinator, Ms. Merry-Grace Majors, at the Harrisburg School District Administration Building, 1601 State Street, Harrisburg, PA 17103 or phone (717) 703-4024. The Harrisburg School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request.